ARCHIE SHEPP — Kwanza (review)

ARCHIE SHEPP — Kwanza album cover Album · 1974 · Progressive Big Band Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
Sean Trane
This Kwanza is a delayed release of 68 and 69-recorded material that saw the light of day some five years later, most likely when Shepp’s recording activities were not so numerous. So we’re facing here a very un-cohesive compilation of five tracks from four different sessions and equally so many (sometimes-vastly) different line-ups. The supposed purpose of the present release was justified by an explanation of African celebration, but it seems mainly invented in order to give this compilation a “travelling impression” (IMHO), but it doesn’t infer with the content or its enjoyment.

The opening Back Back could easily be an RnB piece from the mid-60’s and have an undeniable rock-pop feel, but what to say of Spoo-Pee-Doo with Leon Tomas’ impressive but ultimately-cheesy vocals. Of course much of the interest of this release comes from the New Africa and Bakai tracks (which this very version also found its way on the CD reissue of The Way Ahead), both absolutely awesome and intense tracks, which will most likely remain in your mind a few hours after listening to them. Indeed both tracks are based on an ethnic groove (African and Manouche respectively), and are both slightly hypnotizing, especially the former’s dramatic soloing and Shepp’s improvised tribal incantations. Although not last, but not least either, Slow drag is another impressive track where there remains traces of Shepp’s free-form jazz improvs, but it’s ll very accessible to most.

Despite being a disjointed “album”, this compilation is rather worthwhile (unless you possess the TWA CD reissue), but while worth the detour, I wouldn’t call it essential, especially with Afrika and Bakai available elsewhere, although missing out on Slow Drag would be one. Difficult choice between the present or TWA, though, so I’ll leave it up to you.

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